Best known for their camera cages and follow focus systems, Tilta has now brought dead arms back to life with the Zombie Rig Boompole Support System. The system does not come with a boom pole but includes two poles designed to be placed on a third-party bag or support system. The Zombie Rig supports the weight of the boom pole while allowing for directionality on the mic. Let’s check it out!Back at Cine Gear 2023, Tilta showcased the Zombie Rig boompole support system that allows sound recordists to operate in a more comfortable position. In case you missed it, make sure to check out our Cine Gear interview below.Tilta Zombie Rig – featuresConstructed of aluminum alloy, carbon fiber, and polyurethane plastics, the Zombie Rig is designed to redistribute the weight of the traditional boom pole. It even allows one-handed operation allowing for adaptability in recording to adjust audio levels on your recorder of choice. Often, the sound department on set will be a one-person show, so I could see multiple use cases for this sort of apparatus.Tilta Zombie Rig in action. Source: TiltaIt is compatible with a wide variety of boom poles and sound mixer bags. The connection between the Zombie Rig and the mixer bag is accomplished via baby pin connectors. This also allows for connection to C-stands or support vests. The included brackets attach to various thicknesses of boom poles, accomplished with the use of shims.The most integral part of the system is the Operating Bracket, which connects to the back of the boom pole. The operating pole is used to guide the direction of the microphone and is weighted to counterbalance the weight distribution of the microphone held at long lengths. Therefore, you can manipulate directionality with the operating pole, while the support pole rests on your bag or vest.Tilta’s Zombie Rig weighs 14.6 lbs/6.7 kgs and can be disassembled for storage in a bag one meter long (included) – a negligible addition to your on-set gear.Is it worth it?While I can see the benefits of this system, it comes with a hefty price tag. It is currently on pre-order for $719 (this price includes 10% off until the 6th of February if ordering directly from Tilta’s website). I suppose that at this price, the Zombie Rig isn’t aimed at indie filmmakers who would probably most benefit from this system. Nevertheless, I’m sure you’re also subsidizing the cost of Tilta’s research and development into this system as much as you are the actual system itself with the purchase. If you’re interested, you can pre-order on Tilta’s website.What do you think about Tilta’s Zombie Rig Boompole Support System? I would personally like to see more affordable gear made available for smaller productions, but this is a pretty cool innovation for sound mixers! Let us know your opinion in the comments below!
